Integrated Research Training Group (IRTG)

The Integrated Research Training Group (IRTG) “Molecular Mechanisms of Periodontal Remodeling” serves as the training center for SFB1739. It supports doctoral and postdoctoral researchers in their investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying periodontal remodeling and how these mechanisms are altered by systemic diseases. The goal is to train outstanding scientists who understand the complex interrelationships between dentistry, human medicine, and basic research and can translate these into innovative diagnostic and therapeutic concepts.

Research Across Disciplinary Boundaries

The scientific questions addressed by SFB1739 can only be answered through close collaboration among various disciplines. Therefore, the training program brings together researchers from dentistry, internal medicine, cardiology, nephrology, gastroenterology, immunology, biochemistry, imaging, and biomaterials research. This provides early-career researchers with insights into different scientific approaches and methods and teaches them to tackle complex questions collaboratively.

Network-Wide Training

The IRTG combines individual work on research projects with a joint training program for the entire consortium. In addition to regular workshops and annual meetings, the program includes cross-project research visits, practical training modules, and structured mentoring opportunities. This closely links the individual subprojects and actively promotes scientific exchange within SFB1739.

Personal Development and Mentoring

In addition to academic training, the IRTG places special emphasis on the personal development of its early-career researchers. To complement academic supervision, the IRTG offers programs on career planning, scientific communication, leadership skills, and personal development. The goal is to optimally prepare participants for careers in academia, clinical practice, or industry.

International Networking

SFB1739 promotes the early integration of its early-career researchers into national and international research networks. Close collaboration within the consortium, joint publications, conference presentations, and international partnerships foster a competitive research environment with high scientific visibility. The IRTG thus lays the groundwork for an internationally oriented training program in the field of periodontal organ crosstalk.

Scientific Community

Scientific exchange is a central component of the training program at SFB1739. Even during the consortium’s preparatory phase, regular interdisciplinary meetings, joint seminars, events for early-career researchers, and annual consortium meetings were established. These structures are being further expanded within the IRTG and offer early-career researchers a platform to present their own research findings, develop new ideas, and establish long-term scientific collaborations.